Petra by Night

Petra by Night is a recurring evening experience at Jordan’s most iconic archaeological site, running every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday throughout the year. The event takes visitors through the Siq — the narrow 1.2-kilometre rock gorge that forms the main entrance to the ancient city — and into the Treasury plaza, with the entire route lit by approximately 1,500 candles placed along the path and arranged around the Treasury facade.

What happens

Gates open at 8:30 pm, and the walk from the main Petra visitor centre through the Siq to the Treasury takes around 20 to 25 minutes at a relaxed pace. Once assembled in the Treasury plaza, visitors sit on the ground in front of the carved facade for a short programme of traditional Jordanian music and Bedouin storytelling, performed against the candlelit backdrop of one of the most recognisable carved facades in the world. The entire event runs until around 10:30 pm.

The experience is atmospheric rather than informative — there is minimal commentary about Petra’s history during the event itself. What it offers is access to the Treasury at a time of day that daylight visitors never see, under candlelight rather than harsh afternoon sun, with the Siq rocks glowing in the warm light. Photographs taken here are among the most striking available at any site in Jordan.

Tickets and booking

Tickets for Petra by Night are sold at the main Petra visitor centre (visitpetra.jo) and through authorised tour operators. The price as of recent editions has been approximately JOD 17 per person for visitors who already hold a standard Petra entry ticket, or JOD 27 for those purchasing access solely for the evening event. Confirm current pricing at the visitor centre or via the official Petra Development and Tourism Region Authority (PDTRA) website, as pricing is reviewed periodically.

The event can fill up on popular dates, particularly during the spring and autumn shoulder seasons. Advance booking is recommended for visits in March through May and September through November.

Practical tips

Wear comfortable walking shoes — the Siq path is uneven in places and cobbled in others. Bring a light layer even in summer, as the canyon retains cool air at night. Photography without flash is permitted and produces better results than flash in candlelit conditions. Arrive at the gate 10 to 15 minutes before 8:30 pm to avoid crowding at the entrance. Petra by Night works well as an addition to a full daytime visit to the site; our Petra city guide covers the main daytime highlights and how to structure a visit.